Ángel Rodríguez
Introduction
In February 2009, Ángel Manuel Rodríguez, a former director of the Biblical Research Institute of the General Conference (BRI), wrote a letter in Reflections (a BRI newsletter) warning pastors not to have anything to do with Ernie Knoll’s dreams. (see Appendix E)
This warning was repeated by Elder Leighton Holley, the president of the Texas Conference when he sent out an email encouraging pastors not to let Ernie Knoll speak in their churches based on what Elder Rodríguez had written in his letter. Elder Holley’s email contained:
Dear Pastors,
There are those in our midst agitating confidence in the dreams of a brother Ernie Knoll as a last day prophet. I must clearly warn and caution our pastors and people to be _extremely_ careful. So far his dreams do not bear the mark of the Biblical requirements for a prophet.
Please do not invite him into the pulpits and churches of the Texas Conference. Be watchful and vigilant as protectors of the flock. I include the short article from Angel Rodriguez, chair of the Biblical Research Institute.
In this chapter, we will find that Elder Rodríguez did not state the truth about Ernie.
Who is Ángel Rodríguez?
Ángel Manuel Rodríguez is a former director of the Biblical Research Institute (BRI) at the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists. He was president of Antillian College, and the academic vice president of Southwestern Adventist University. Elder Rodríguez received his Doctor of Theology (ThD) in biblical theology from Andrews University. His special research interests include Old Testament, Sanctuary and Atonement, and Old Testament Theology. He is the author of several books and has a monthly column in Adventist World.
Rodríguez casts doubt
Rodríguez says: (see Appendix E)
“He was a local church elder and supposedly has identified himself as an ordained pastor.”
Fact
Ernie Knoll has never claimed to be an ordained pastor of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Therefore, what Elder Rodríguez stated is untrue. God, however, sees it differently. Following are two excerpts from Ernie’s dreams.
The Work Now Begins, December 14, 2007
As for me not having a broad understanding of the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy, the Herald says that I have a broader understanding than I might know and that because I am not ordained of man does not mean I am not ordained of God.
In His Time, July 12, 2008
Jesus turns to me and says, “Man ordains man to serve on My behalf but I have called you personally to serve on My behalf.
There is a psychological technique frequently used by attorneys to get a jury to make a decision favorable to their client when hard evidence doesn’t support their viewpoint. First they create a supposition, a speculation that they offer as possible truth. Then they create a spin on those suppositions and present those as appearing to be facts. Next they present the logical conclusion based on those “facts.” Their purpose is to create enough doubt in the mind of the jury to accomplish their desired goal. Notice the frequent use of this technique as you read Elder Rodríguez’s letter. There is an intent to create doubt about the messages and thus lead people to ignore the messages rather than studying them with Scripture and the Spirit of Prophecy (writings of Ellen G. White). An example is using the word “supposedly.”
God says:
Counsels for the Church, p. 344
False reports will be circulated, and some will be taken in this snare. They will believe these rumors and in their turn will repeat them, and thus a link will be formed connecting them with the archdeceiver. This spirit will not always be manifested in an open defiance of the messages that God sends, but a settled unbelief is expressed in many ways. Every false statement that is made feeds and strengthens this unbelief, and through this means many souls will be balanced in the wrong direction.
Our High Calling, p. 359
Our gracious Redeemer looked down the stream of time, and beheld the perils that would in the last days surround His chosen. . . . If the members of the church labor faithfully to build up the cause of truth, they will not escape the tongue of gossip, falsehood, and slander. “All that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Tim. 3:12. Their consistent, unwavering course is a constant rebuke of the unbelief, pride, and selfishness of the hypocritical professor.
Conclusion
Elder Rodríguez should have verified his facts before spreading false rumors. Ernie’s ministry has never been hidden. Contact details are available on his website that Elder Rodríguez could have used to verify the facts.
Ernie not re-elected as an elder
Rodríguez says: (see Appendix E)
“His local church did not re-elect him as church elder in part because of his dreams. There is little on his webpage about the history of his experiences with the dreams. He was having vivid dreams for which he provided his own interpretations.”
Fact
Ernie Knoll was told he could continue to be an elder but was not to share his dreams from the pulpit. At a later date, he was not re-elected and was not told of the decision.
Regarding little history on Ernie’s webpage about the history of his experiences, that should not be a concern. Ernie is not wishing to bring attention to himself, but rather to the messages of the dreams. Additionally, most prophets do not include a history of their past experiences.
In reference to Ernie providing his own interpretation, notice what 2 Peter 1:20-21 states: “Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” Did not prophets of the Bible and Ellen White herself interpret their visions or dreams as they were “moved by the Holy Ghost?"
Conclusion
One wonders how the director of the Biblical Research Institute could send out a letter that contains facts that were not verified. This amounts to spreading false rumors or gossip. Ellen White cautions us that, “Do not make it your business to be a talebearer. As matters are reported, each one makes the report a little more pronounced or varied, and thus painful discrepancies cause many to form wrong conclusions.” Spalding and Magan Collection, p. 77
Desiring to be a prophet?
Rodríguez says: (see Appendix E)
“First, Brother Ernie states that he wanted God to communicate with him. This was something that he cherished in his heart.”
Fact
Ernie did not dwell on the thought of God communicating with him. It was a last-minute thought on the night that he thought could be his last, because he was very ill. Elder Rodríguez did not check the true source (Ernie) as to his experience that night—the same night that God healed him and gave him a view of heaven and messages for His people. Ernie has never said he wanted to be a prophet. He has made it clear from his published dreams that he felt unworthy and incapable to give God’s messages to His people. He was also afraid of what people would think of him.
Excerpts from Ernie’s dreams
A View of Heaven and a Message for His People, December 10, 2006
Incidentally, for two weeks after this dream I did not share the ending - the most important part of the dream where Jesus talked with me. I was afraid of what others would say. But then I found it difficult to sleep at night and a still, small voice kept saying to share the end of the dream. Becky now began to notice that something was not right and asked if there was anything else I was not telling her. I tearfully began relating the end of the dream. We decided that if Jesus said to share the dream, that we had no other choice but to do it. And we have not been sorry ever since.
The Work Now Begins, December 14, 2007
I tell him that I know Jesus does not make mistakes, but can He send these dreams instead to someone who is important and well versed in the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy, someone who is better suited for this task.
Conclusion
The above quotes hardly sound like someone who was cherishing the thought of becoming a prophet. Ernie has stated in his public testimonies that he desired God speak with him, but that doesn’t mean he wanted to be a prophet. If we are honest with ourselves, how many of us would like God to talk to us? How many would like to receive a dream or vision without being called to be a prophet?
Rodríguez says: (see Appendix E)
“This is a little strange and lends itself to different interpretations.”
God says:
Even if Ernie did have a desire to be a prophet, notice the following:
1 Corinthians 14:1
Follow after charity, and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophesy.
Selected Messages, Book 2, p. 57
The time is not far off now when men will want a much closer relation to Christ, a much closer union with His Holy Spirit, than ever they have had, or will have, unless they give up their will and their way, and submit to God's will and God's way. The great sin of those who profess to be Christians is that they do not open the heart to receive the Holy Spirit. When souls long after Christ, and seek to become one with Him, then those who are content with the form of godliness, exclaim “Be careful, do not go to extremes.”
Conclusion
Why would Elder Rodríguez make the statement that it is “a little strange” for Ernie to want God to communicate with him when God’s Word says to “desire spiritual gifts” and even prophesying? On a lesser note, should not everyone who engages in prayer desire God to communicate with him? Prayer is not to be a one-sided conversation.
Rodríguez says: (see Appendix E)
“But perhaps what is more important is that we hardly find in the Bible a person who was eager to be a prophet. When called to the prophetic ministry those persons were not initially delighted. Very often their first reaction was to resist the divine call. This was also the case with Ellen G. White.”
God says:
Isaiah 6:8
Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us? Then said I, Here am I; send me.
Fact
The fact that Elder Rodríguez admits that we hardly find anyone in the Bible shows that there were at least some people who were willing to be a prophet of God. Because most prophets were not willing, does not set a precedent that all prophets/messengers of God will not be eager to respond to do His bidding.
Summation
Since Ernie Knoll has never claimed he wanted to be a prophet, and since at least one prophet in the Bible was eager for the job, Elder Rodríguez’s argument is not true.
Conclusion
Again Elder Rodríguez is attempting to cast doubt on Ernie’s dreams by declaring that prophets are rarely eager to be prophets, even though Ernie has never said he was eager to be a prophet. The premise for this argument is based on a half-truth that is not scriptural.
Rodríguez says: (see Appendix E)
“This interest in being a prophet may have had some psychological impact on his experiences.”
Fact
Ernie Knoll is no different than anyone who desires God to speak with them. He never cherished in his heart to be a prophet.
Summation
This is nothing more than character assassination. Elder Rodríguez must be able to support the accusation, otherwise he stands as one spreading false rumors or gossip.
Conclusion
Those who attack Ellen White’s ministry often resort to the accusation that she suffered psychological problems. Is Elder Rodríguez doing the same by discrediting Ernie Knoll’s dreams?
Are the dreams significant for the Church?
Rodríguez says: (see Appendix E)
“Second, his dreams deal with different topics but are not of deep significance for the church. A number of them are about his ministry and serve to encourage him to continue to do what he is doing. In others he deals with the health message, worship, the Lord’s Supper, the coming of destruction, and the need for reformation in the church—he particularly mentions the Adventist Book Centers.”
God says:
Isaiah 55:11
So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.
1 Corinthians 2:14
But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.
Fact
God’s word is never insignificant.
Summation
Ernie Knoll’s dreams touch on many subjects as can be seen in Appendix F. To say that these are not deeply significant for the Church is an understatement. Are subjects such as the health message, worship, the Lord’s Supper, coming destruction and a need for reformation in the Church and the many other subjects contained in Ernie’s dreams not significant? Because Elder Rodríguez is the director of the Biblical Research Institute, does he feel that he is an authority on what is significant and what is not? Or is the real problem that the dreams reveal the true Laodicean character of many of the Adventist churches as well as the need for reformation?
Conclusion
If we allowed Elder Rodríguez to pick and choose what was significant in the Bible, how many books would we discard because we don’t believe they are deeply significant for the Church? What would happen to books such as Esther, which never mentions the words “God,” “Lord” or “prayer”? What about Song of Solomon or Philemon? The point is that when we disregard a messenger of God based on our assumption of what is relevant and what is not, we set ourselves up in a position above God. This is a form of kingly power.
The King James Version
Rodríguez says: (see Appendix E)
“In one of the dreams, the KJV was identified as the Bible version that we should use. As I read that, I wondered about Bible versions in other languages. Why should the Lord limit Himself to one language?”
An excerpt from Ernie’s dream
The ABC, October 24, 2007
Next we walk over to the Bible section. He shows me all the different versions then reaches down and shoves all the Bibles far away from one version. I reach down and pick up one of the Bibles left by themselves. The front says “Holy Bible” and “King James Version.” He looks at me and says, “This needs no explanation.”
Fact
In the dream above, Ernie was in an Adventist Book Center (ABC). All the books, CDs and signs were in the English language because the setting was an American store. This was not the issue. The issue is that the King James Version (KJV) needs no explanation because it does not teach error as other versions do.
Revelation 22:18-19
For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, if any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book: And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.
There has been much written about Bible versions. Two of the best books are The NIV or the KJV by George Burnside and Our Authorized Bible Vindicated by Benjamin G. Wilkinson.
Did Ellen White use other versions of the Bible? Yes, on some occasions. However, she never used verses which were stated incorrectly. Because there are so many versions out today, the Lord is stressing that our safety is in staying with the KJV.
Many complain that the KJV language is difficult to understand. When a person prays for the guidance of the Holy Spirit before reading the KJV, He will help that person to understand it. It has worked for the last generation and many before that, and it will work until Jesus returns.
God says:
Manuscript Releases, Vol. 20, p. 170
My brethren in the Lord, I am instructed to say that you must raise the standard of piety and truth and holiness higher, still higher. Compare scripture with scripture. Encourage the people to study their Bibles. Nearly all have the common version, and the words are so simple and plain that all who read may understand. Let the Scriptures be read freely in the family and in the pulpit. The men who wrote the books of the Bible were inspired of God, and the words of Holy Writ are for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come.
The “common version” or the “Authorized Version” was the standard in Ellen White’s day. When she quoted the Bible and it did not mention the version, it was the KJV. She also recommended using that version, not others, from the pulpit.
Summation
Is the issue other languages or which version the Author prefers? For the minority of sincere Christians who do not have the KJV, particularly in their language, remember that the Lord only holds us accountable for what we know or are able to know.
Conclusion
The King James Version (KJV) needs no explanation because it does not teach error as other versions do. Even though Ellen White used a few different versions on occasion, she never used verses which were stated incorrectly. The KJV was the standard in Ellen White’s day and she recommended using it from the pulpit. Is the KJV too difficult to understand? No. When a person prays for the guidance of the Holy Spirit before reading the KJV, He will help that person to understand it.
No purpose or meaning of the dreams
Rodríguez says: (see Appendix E)
“In some cases it is very difficult to find the purpose or the message of a dream.”
Fact
God often obscures the meaning of His words so that only the wise or those who have spiritual discernment can understand.
God says:
Mark 4:12
That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand; lest at any time they should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them.
Isaiah 44:18
They have not known nor understood: for he hath shut their eyes, that they cannot see; and their hearts, that they cannot understand.
Summation
Many Christians believe the books of Daniel and Revelation are hard to understand. This does not mean they are not relevant.
Conclusion
In some cases, some of what Paul wrote was hard to understand. “As also in all his [Paul’s] epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as they do also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.” 2 Peter 3:16. Do we reject Paul because parts of what he wrote were hard to understand? Not at all. Likewise, because parts of what Ernie wrote appear to Elder Rodríguez to have no purpose or message, this does not mean he is a false prophet.
Ernie the center of interest?
Rodríguez says: (see Appendix E)
“Third, in many of the dreams Brother Ernie is the center of interest or they are about him. For instance, he dreams he is in heaven sitting at a large table. While there he begins to think about the sins he committed while on earth. I tried to find a message in the dream but I could not. It was about the burden of sin that he was still carrying while in heaven. To me this is a rather strange situation.”
God says:
The fact that Ernie is sometimes the center of interest in a dream is not a test of a true prophet. The dreams are written in the first person, from Ernie’s perspective. Below are a number of quotes from Ellen White’s writings, all showing that she was the center of interest in her visions/dreams.
Early Writings, p. 20
About one week after this the Lord gave me another view and showed me the trials I must pass through, and that I must go and relate to others what He had revealed to me, and that I should meet with great opposition and suffer anguish of spirit by going. But said the angel, "The grace of God is sufficient for you; He will hold you up."
Ibid., p. 32
We felt an unusual spirit of prayer. And as we prayed the Holy Ghost fell upon us. We were very happy. Soon I was lost to earthly things and was wrapped in a vision of God's glory. I saw an angel flying swiftly to me. He quickly carried me from the earth to the Holy City. In the city I saw a temple, which I entered. I passed through a door before I came to the first veil. This veil was raised, and I passed into the holy place. Here I saw the altar of incense, the candlestick with seven lamps, and the table on which was the shewbread. After viewing the glory of the holy, Jesus raised the second veil and I passed into the holy of holies.
Ibid., p. 39
The Lord has given me a view of other worlds. Wings were given me, and an angel attended me from the city to a place that was bright and glorious. The grass of the place was living green, and the birds there warbled a sweet song. The inhabitants of the place were of all sizes; they were noble, majestic, and lovely. They bore the express image of Jesus, and their countenances beamed with holy joy, expressive of the freedom and happiness of the place. I asked one of them why they were so much more lovely than those on the earth. The reply was, "We have lived in strict obedience to the commandments of God, and have not fallen by disobedience, like those on the earth." Then I saw two trees, one looked much like the tree of life in the city... Then I was taken to a world which had seven moons. There I saw good old Enoch, who had been translated... I asked him if this was the place he was taken to from the earth. He said, "It is not; the city is my home, and I have come to visit this place." He moved about the place as if perfectly at home. I begged of my attending angel to let me remain in that place. I could not bear the thought of coming back to this dark world again. Then the angel said, "You must go back, and if you are faithful, you, with the 144,000, shall have the privilege of visiting all the worlds and viewing the handiwork of God."
Ibid., p. 76
When the Lord first gave me messages to deliver to His people, it was hard for me to declare them, and I often softened them down and made them as mild as possible for fear of grieving some. It was a great trial to declare the messages as the Lord gave them to me. I did not realize that I was so unfaithful and did not see the sin and danger of such a course until in vision I was taken into the presence of Jesus. He looked upon me with a frown and turned His face from me. It is not possible to describe the terror and agony I then felt. I fell upon my face before Him, but had no power to utter a word.
Ibid., p. 78
I dreamed of seeing a temple to which many people were flocking. Only those who took refuge in that temple would be saved when time should close. All who remained outside would be forever lost... Fearing to be laughed at and ridiculed, I thought best to wait until the multitude were dispersed, or until I could enter unobserved by them. But the numbers increased instead of diminishing, and fearful of being too late, I hastily left my home and pressed through the crowd. In my anxiety to reach the temple I did not notice or care for the throng that surrounded me. On entering the building, I saw that the vast temple was supported by one immense pillar, and to this was tied a Lamb all mangled and bleeding. We who were present seemed to know that this Lamb had been torn and bruised on our account. All who entered the temple must come before it and confess their sins.
Fact
A prophet is often associated with the dream/visions they are given. Also, there are three main messages to the dream, “At the Table.”
- When we get to heaven, we don’t need to worry or mention anything about our past sins, since these will have been forgiven and are in the past. “I, even I, am he that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.” Isaiah 43:25.
- “Jesus, the great Host, would have done all that was needed to have me at the table to serve me.” Jesus paid it all. “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13.
- Ernie was also shown the joy of sitting at the heavenly table, relaxed, enjoying family and others, but best of all—the great Host.
Why are these points so hard for some to appreciate?
Summation
It is not uncommon for a prophet/messenger to be the center of interest. For example, about 57 times in the book of Revelation, John refers to himself in his dreams. That is an average of almost 2.3 times for each chapter. Twenty-two times he uses the phrase “I heard.” Thirty-three times he uses the phrase “I saw.” In the book Early Writings, Ellen White uses the phrase “I saw” 198 times. There are wonderful messages for us in the dreams, if we are willing to let the Holy Spirit show us what those are.
Conclusion
Just as the Bible prophets and Ellen White were often but not always the center of their dreams/visions, why then can’t Ernie also be the center of interest in his dreams? If we do not let the Holy Spirit show us the messages of the dreams, we lose the blessings the Lord intends to bring to us.
Ernie trying too hard to prove he is a prophet?
Rodríguez says: (see Appendix E)
“Fourth, he makes a great effort to demonstrate that he has the characteristics of a true prophet as found in the Bible. Therefore, Brother Ernie includes in the narratives of his dreams passages from the Bible and statements from the Spirit of Prophecy that support the message of his dreams. In other words, he is trying to demonstrate that his messages are supported by God’s previous revelations to his people.”
Explanation
This point was covered in chapter 1, under the heading, Footnoted dreams as follows.
Ernie’s dreams contain footnotes to get the readers started with their own research of God’s words. Ernie could have added many additional references, but individuals need to find their own with the Holy Spirit’s help. There are also cases where some individuals do not have access to these references. Footnotes were also added to help explain parts of the dreams. Ellen White gave Bible references in her writings. God’s truth always agrees with itself. Isaiah 28:10 says, “For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little.” Ernie’s dreams also contain Bible and Spirit of Prophecy in the dreams themselves. These came directly from the Lord during the dreams.
Fact
Ellen White quoted a lot of Bible verses in her writings. In one vision she was shown fifty Bible verses she included (see Early Writings, pp. 24 to 31). God commands us: “Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.” 1 John 4:1. How do we “try the spirits”? “To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.” Isaiah 8:20.
Summation
Quoting from the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy does not prove that Ernie is trying to prove his calling. It rather shows there is no conflict between what he has been shown and what has been previously revealed. The references are not provided to bring attention to Ernie but to help God’s people. We are to “try the spirits” “to the law and to the testimony.”
Conclusion
It wouldn’t make any difference whether Ernie Knoll quoted Bible and Spirit of Prophecy in his dreams or not. His critics would condemn him either way. Both Jesus and John the Baptist were treated the same. “For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say, He hath a devil. The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say, Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publicans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children.” Matthew 11:18-20. What method does Angel Rodríguez use to “try the spirits”?
Dreams irrelevant for the Church?
Rodríguez says: (see Appendix E)
“This makes his dreams almost irrelevant for the church. What we need to do is read the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy.”
“This makes his dreams almost irrelevant for the church”? What is Elder Rodríguez saying? Since “passages from the Bible and statements from the Spirit of Prophecy support the messages of his dreams,” are they irrelevant?
God says:
The Great Controversy (1911), p. 458
As men see that they cannot maintain their position by the Scriptures, many determine to maintain it at all hazards…
Fact
“Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21. The prophet Joel predicted that “...it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions.” Joel 2:28.
God says:
2 Timothy 3:16
All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
S.D.A. Bible Commentary, Vol. 7, p. 919
There are some that may think they are fully capable with their finite judgment to take the Word of God, and to state what are the words of inspiration, and what are not the words of inspiration. I want to warn you off that ground, my brethren in the ministry. "Put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground." There is no finite man that lives, I care not who he is or whatever is his position, that God has authorized to pick and choose in His Word.
Summation
Many of the same accounts of the life of Christ are recounted in the four gospels, particularly, Matthew, Mark and Luke. Does this mean they are irrelevant? Of course not. Nothing that God reveals is irrelevant.
Conclusion
If the message is of God, no one has the right to disregard it. The fact that some of what Ernie has been shown can be supported from the Bible or Spirit of Prophecy does not make his dreams irrelevant. Such reasoning would lead to picking and choosing from the Bible or writings of Ellen White what we feel is relevant. Interestingly, the argument that Elder Rodríguez uses is the very same argument those who are rejecting the Spirit of Prophecy use when they claim what we need to do is only read the Bible. When the writings of new prophets in the Bible came along, did people reject them because they already had a prophet come? If we used this argument, we would still be going only by the first five books of Moses. Could it be that Elder Rodríguez’s argument originates from the same source as those who reject Ellen White? According to God’s Word, Elder Rodríguez is placing himself in a hazardous position. We need to take these messages seriously, because God’s people are in a crisis!
Tithe accountability
Rodríguez says: (see Appendix E)
“But one of the dreams created a problem for him. In it tithe was discussed and the teaching was not in agreement with what the Bible teaches about tithing. The angel tells him that the individual decides to whom he or she should give the tithe. This is not what you find in the Bible and in the writings of Ellen G. White.”
Fact
The angel said that God will hold us accountable if we know our tithe is being misused and we do nothing to rectify the situation. The truth about tithing was covered in great detail in chapter 1. Following is what was written in that chapter about our accountability with our tithe. References are made to Elder G. Edward Reid, which also apply to Elder Rodríguez.
God says:
The Kress Collection, p. 120
The churches must arouse. The members must awake out of sleep and begin to inquire, How is the money which we put into the treasury being used? The Lord desires that a close search be made.
Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 1, p. 261
There are fearful woes for those who preach the truth, but are not sanctified by it, and also for those who consent to receive and maintain the unsanctified to minister to them in word and doctrine. I am alarmed for the people of God who profess to believe solemn, important truth, for I know that many of them are not converted nor sanctified through it. Men can hear and acknowledge the whole truth, and yet know nothing of the power of godliness. All who preach the truth will not themselves be saved by it. Said the angel: “Be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the Lord.”
Sermons and Talks, Vol. 2, p. 74
If the Conference business is not managed according to the order of the Lord, that is the sin of the erring ones. The Lord will not hold you responsible for it, if you do what you can to correct the evil. But do not commit sin yourselves by withholding from God his own property. "Cursed be he that doeth the work of the Lord negligently," or deceitfully.
Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 7, p. 176
God desires to bring men into direct relation with Himself. In all His dealings with human beings He recognizes the principle of personal responsibility. He seeks to encourage a sense of personal dependence and to impress the need of personal guidance. His gifts are committed to men as individuals. Every man has been made a steward of sacred trusts; each is to discharge his trust according to the direction of the Giver; and by each an account of his stewardship must be rendered to God.
Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 361
Do we individually realize our true position, that as God's hired servants we are not to bargain away our stewardship? We have an individual accountability before the heavenly universe, to administer the trust committed us of God. Our own hearts are to be stirred. Our hands are to have something to impart of the income that God entrusts to us. The humblest of us may be agents for God, using our gifts for His name's glory. He who improves his talents to the best of his ability may present to God his offering as a consecrated gift that shall be as fragrant incense before Him. It is the duty of everyone to see that his talents are turned to advantage as a gift that he must return, having done his best to improve it.
Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 3, p. 553
It would be poor policy to support from the treasury of God those who really mar and injure His work, and who are constantly lowering the standard of Christianity.
Ibid., Vol. 5, p. 103
Those who give their influence to sustain an evil work are doing Satan's drudgery.
Manuscript Releases, Vol. 17, p. 305
Properly done, the work of the gospel minister will add many souls to the fold. Many have made a mistake in receiving credentials. They will have to take up work to which they are better adapted than the preaching of the Word. They are being paid from the tithe, but their efforts are feeble, and they should not continue to be paid from the tithe. In many ways the ministry is losing its sacred character.
Series A, No. 1, p. 13, Feb. 1990 by Leaves of Autumn Books (copies of original pamphlets)
There are ministers, and not a few, either, that have carried credentials for years, and yet they do not give evidence of being converted men, either in their personal experience or in their labors. Their labors do not benefit the church, but in many instances are a positive injury. Many of our brethren have expressed themselves to the effect that if their Conference continues to pay money to such ministers, they will withhold their tithes. We do not say that it would be right for individuals to withhold from the Lord that which is his; but, on the other hand, it certainly is very wrong for the Conference to give credentials to such men, and it is nothing less than sin to take the Lord’s money to pay for such labor. There must be earnest labor with such men; and if they will not reform, there can be no reason why they should continue to hold credentials.
Then there are many that are even light and frivolous, and by this course they do more harm than good. These, too, should be labored with faithfully, and if they do not give evidence of reform, they should certainly not be continued in the ministry; for only evil can result from their work.
Although the following statement does not use the word “tithe,” the principle stated is that we are accountable to God alone.
Spalding and Magan Collection, p. 176
The people to whom God has given his means are amenable to him alone.
What Ernie Knoll was shown in "Testing the Spirits" dream
“I watch again how we were shown that it is important His people understand that we are to return a tithe to His storehouse. I am again shown it is important that we understand what the funds are being used for. If an individual is providing funds and they understand that the funds are not being used according to His will, that person will be held accountable if they do nothing about bringing it to the attention of the recipient, the one who holds the keys. The Great Creator has said to pay a tribute to those who do His bidding. The Herald explains that many tributes are used toward Lucifer’s work of using spiritualism and other forms of unholy worship practices from within God’s church by those who collect and place the funds in a storehouse. The Herald says, ‘That is not God’s storehouse. Those that give will be able to see the blessing which comes as a wholesome fruit. They will see the fruits of the spirit as they give in faith when it is placed in God’s storehouse.’ ”
Summation
As we can see from God’s words, for Elder Reid to say that the individual donor of tithe and offerings is not responsible for any mismanagement on the part of church leaders is false.
Conclusion
Are we accountable? God says, “The Lord will not hold you responsible for it, if you do what you can to correct the evil.” Are we then responsible if we know our money is being used for evil and do not do what we can to correct the evil? According to Ellen White’s counsel, we are responsible and Elder Reid was wrong. We are accountable to God alone. However, it is interesting to note that when individuals try to correct the evil in the Church by speaking out, they are usually disfellowshipped and the evil not only continues but also worsens. As Ellen White stated in the Spalding and Magan Collection, p. 498, “Send no statement of the situation through our religious papers; because it will not be honored.” This is why God stated in “The Boardroom” dream, “…let the war begin in My house of worship.” Is God saying, “It’s time to take back the Church?” Has Elder Reid used his position to share only half the truth? God has told us each to study. If we only go by what Elder Reid has said instead of looking at the whole statement for ourselves, God will hold each of us accountable.
Rodríguez says: (see Appendix E)
“Apparently Brother Ernie received quite a bit of reaction to this dream [regarding tithe] and some alleged that he modified it. But the truth is that he is still promoting this dream on his webpage.”
God says:
The Acts of the Apostles p. 569
John was accordingly summoned to Rome to be tried for his faith. Here before the authorities the apostle's doctrines were misstated. False witnesses accused him of teaching seditious heresies. By these accusations his enemies hoped to bring about the disciple's death.
Fact
Yes, there was quite a reaction to the tithe issue, and many who once accepted the dreams chose to reject them because of this issue. Why is it that when it comes to money, it hurts the most? Would greed be a factor? Let us also remember that Jesus experienced this same situation when he was rejected by most of His followers at one point after teaching that they must eat His flesh and drink His blood. (John 6:51-60)
Ernie never modified the tithe portions of his dreams. At the beginning of the ministry, a few dreams were modified to make them more readable, but the essence of the dreams did not change. Editing the dreams was a learning process, as it would be for anyone. Following is an example of why Ernie has the authority to edit the dreams as needed.
Ellen G. White: The Early Years, Vol. 1, p. 270
Why Were the Lines Omitted in 1851?It may be asked, then, why were the three lines omitted from the printing of the vision in 1851 in Mrs. White's first book? In introducing the vision in the book, she gives a very general reason for all omission--space and repetition of subject matter. This would apply more to the paragraphs descriptive of the new earth than the three lines in question. As to the statement embodied in them, the author herself had the right, even the responsibility, to choose content and wording for her book that would correctly convey what was revealed to her. If there were phrases that were capable of distortion or interpretation to mean that which she did not intend to teach, she had the privilege and even the duty of handling the matter in such a way that the printed account would correctly reflect her intentions.
Conclusion
Again Elder Rodríguez resorts to spreading false rumors. He has never contacted Ernie to verify any of these allegations. If he cannot prove these accusations, then he is simply spreading gossip.
The 144,000 allegation
Rodríguez says: (see Appendix E)
“It has also been stated that he changed one of his dreams about the 144,000 because the original version of it contradicted the Spirit of Prophecy.”
God Says:
The Great Controversy (1911), p. 226
The priests, bent upon keeping the popular fury at its height, circulated the most terrible accusations against the Protestants. They were charged with plotting to massacre the Catholics, to overthrow the government, and to murder the king. Not a shadow of evidence could be produced in support of the allegations.
Fact
Ernie had a situation early on in his ministry where he was discussing the subject of the 144,000 in which he simply misunderstood the words “with the 144,000” versus “among the 144,000.” It was not a message in a dream. Since that situation, Ernie came to the correct conclusion. Bible students do change their minds as new information comes to light.
God says:
The Review and Herald, July 26, 1892
We have many lessons to learn, and many, many to unlearn. God and heaven alone are infallible. Those who think that they will never have to give up a cherished view, never have occasion to change an opinion, will be disappointed. As long as we hold to our own ideas and opinions with determined persistency, we cannot have the unity for which Christ prayed.
Conclusion
Elder Rodríguez should have verified the facts before putting out a false statement. Why is he going by heresay rather than going straight to the source (Ernie)? Since Ernie is “on trial,” we should take note of the fact that use of "hearsay evidence" in court is normally not allowed. Should it be any different in this case?
Dreams of Divine Origin?
Rodríguez says: (see Appendix E)
“What can we conclude about the dreams? It is extremely difficult to assign the dreams to a particular source of origin. The last point we made about tithing as well as the overall nature of the dreams raise serious questions about their divine origin. But perhaps one of the main problems we face is that the influence of the dreams may lead people to rely more on them than on the Scripture. Consequently, they could be distracted from the study of the Bible and the Spirit of Prophecy. This could lead them to emphasize our subjective experiences as a reliable guide in the search for truth. The times in which we live are dangerous times and the closer we stay to the Bible, spending time studying it, the safest it would be for the church.”
God says:
Manuscript Releases, Vol. 12, p. 288
The only safe course to pursue is to search the heart, try the motives by the Word of God, and test the spirit, and see what is the influence of words and actions. Conversion is needed. A transforming influence of the Spirit of God upon the character must be felt and demonstrated in the words and actions.
Fact
For Elder Rodríguez to arrive at a conclusion about the dreams based on faulty information and supposition leads to a faulty conclusion. If a person is willing to test the spirits (as listed in Ernie’s dream “Testing the Spirits,”) then the source is readily apparent. When one uses faulty information and tests, not testing the messages by the law and the testimony, then it would be difficult. Rodríguez and others, who stake their conclusions based on ignoring information they have at their disposal and using misinformation and false allegations, put themselves in grave danger, not only for their own salvation but are responsible for others who choose to ignore God’s warnings because of what was said.
Elder Rodríguez reveals one reason why he encourages people to reject Ernie’s dreams—they may lead people to rely more upon them than the Bible and Spirit of Prophecy. Ernie has not written enough to even make this objection slightly valid. This is the same argument used by those who reject the Spirit of Prophecy. Let’s put this objection into perspective. Ernie’s dreams total 36 at present and contain approximately 83,000 words. Ellen White’s writings are so numerous that trying to count the words would be a difficult task. Even all of Elder Rodríguez’s published writings would be larger than Ernie’s dreams. What then is the issue? Should everyone stop writing because their books may detract people from reading the Bible?
Contrary to what Elder Rodriguez states, Ernie continues to receive much correspondence of how the dreams are bringing people around the world to a deeper study of the Scriptures and the Spirit of Prophecy and to repent and prepare for Christ’s return. Ernie’s messages point us to the Bible, giving new details as Ellen White did. His dreams cannot be read quickly or without the Holy Spirit, any more than we can do that when studying the Scriptures. It must be studied deeply. Then the blessings will come.
Conclusion
Elder Rodriguez arrives at a faulty conclusion, because he did not test the spirits. By believing misinformation and false allegations, Elder Rodriguez not only puts himself in grave danger but others as well. Ernie receives much correspondence on how the dreams are bringing people to a deeper study of God’s words and how they are preparing for Christ’s return. Ernie’s messages point us to the Bible and give new details. Should we not be delighted to receive such a gift from God?
Rodríguez says: (see Appendix E)
“We do not deny that the Lord will pour His Spirit out on His people in an unprecedented way, but we should also be aware of the deceptions of the last days. I do not believe that Brother Ernie is trying to deceive anybody. I only call you, the reader, to be wise and prudent and wait for the Lord instead of spending time with dreams whose origin we cannot clearly verify.”
God says:
The Great Controversy (1911), p. 458
As men see that they cannot maintain their position by the Scriptures, many determine to maintain it at all hazards, and with a malicious spirit they assail the character and motives of those who stand in defense of unpopular truth. It is the same policy which has been pursued in all ages. Elijah was declared to be a troubler of Israel, Jeremiah a traitor, Paul a polluter of the temple. From that day to this, those who would be loyal to truth have been denounced as seditious, heretical, or schismatic. Multitudes who are too unbelieving to accept the sure word of prophecy, will receive with unquestioning credulity an accusation against those who dare to reprove fashionable sins. This spirit will increase more and more. And the Bible plainly teaches that a time is approaching when the laws of the State shall so conflict with the law of God that whoever would obey all the divine precepts must brave reproach and punishment as an evil-doer.
Fact
The Bible teaches us how to test a prophet. It also counsels, “Despise not prophesyings. Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.” 1 Thessalonians 5:20-21.
We must be ready to hear God’s voice, wherever that is. Why should we limit God’s words by only reading the Bible? Why would God send us the Spirit of Prophecy in the last days if it was not important? God does nothing without revealing it to his servants the prophets. (Amos 3:7.) If God loves us enough to send us messages for the last days, should we not listen to the messages? Deceptions will come, but the genuine always does too. Let us not be so afraid of being deceived that we shun all messages. Otherwise, our salvation is at risk.
Summation
It is true that we need to be aware of deceptions, but we also need to be careful we do not reject God’s messages. Whenever God has sent a messenger in the past, the majority have always rejected that messenger. Will it be any different with Ernie?
Conclusion
In one breath, Elder Rodríguez says that Ernie’s dreams may influence people to rely upon them more than the Bible, and in the next breath, he admits God will send prophets in the last days. Both of these conclusions are contradictory. God never sends a prophet without a message. It is sad that Elder Rodríguez, one of our leading scholars, is unable to determine the origin of Ernie dreams by comparing them with the plain tests given in the Word of God. It is even more sad that one who holds such a responsible position can only resort to his own tests that have no basis in the Bible or Spirit of Prophecy.
Chapter conclusion
For someone who is the director of the Biblical Research Institute of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Adventists deserve better than Elder Rodríguez’s letter. Apart from the tithing issue, no other point raised is a valid test of a prophet. Instead, Elder Rodríguez resorts to unsubstantiated facts and gossip.
Is it not alarming that in Elder Rodríguez’s short paper criticizing Ernie and his dreams, he does not give a single Bible verse or Spirit of Prophecy quote to show the dreams are out of harmony with God’s Word? For a man in his position to merely give his opinions and assumptions about someone who says he is receiving dreams from God is irresponsible. Should not one of our foremost Bible scholars be able to give Bible verses or Spirit of Prophecy quotes to show error in the dreams?
From Ernie’s dream, “Repent, as I AM Coming,” November 12, 2008
“Some have said that there are errors in the messages but when asked to show the errors, they cannot. That is because all messages that come directly from the throne of God do not have errors.”
We must all study God’s words for ourselves to see what needs changing in our lives and within the Church. While the Church is being shaken by soul-searching truths, let us remain faithful and be a part of the Church that will remain standing.
God says:
Leviticus 19:16-17
Thou shalt not go up and down as a talebearer among thy people: neither shalt thou stand against the blood of thy neighbour: I am the LORD. Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him.
John 10:26-28
But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I said unto you. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 176
Evilspeaking is a twofold curse, falling more heavily upon the speaker than upon the hearer. He who scatters the seeds of dissension and strife reaps in his own soul the deadly fruits. How miserable is the talebearer, the surmiser of evil! He is a stranger to true happiness.
Ibid., p. 609
An earnest effort should be made in every church to put away evilspeaking and a censorious spirit as among the sins productive of the greatest evils in the church. Severity and faultfinding must be rebuked as the workings of Satan. Mutual love and confidence must be encouraged and strengthened in the members of the church. Let all, in the fear of God and with love to their brethren, close their ears to gossip and censure. Direct the talebearer to the teachings of God's word. Bid him obey the Scriptures and carry his complaints directly to those whom he thinks in error. This united action would bring a flood of light into the church and close the door to a flood of evil. Thus God would be glorified, and many souls would be saved.
Spalding and Magan Collection, p. 77
Students, understand that you have not been appointed by the Lord to be an informer. Your work is to study your Bible and the other branches of education, as for your life. Do not make it your business to be a talebearer. As matters are reported, each one makes the report a little more pronounced or varied, and thus painful discrepancies cause many to form wrong conclusions. Therefore guard well your words; put a bridle on your tongue. If you allow yourself to become a talebearer, you will not be welcome in any family, because of your propensity to report every transaction that may occur. I have decided that it is unsafe for me to visit, not because I am guilty of any known wrong, but because something will be said or inferred that will be misrepresented; and therefore I prefer to remain at home.
Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers, p. 294
In their counsels they venture to pronounce judgment upon the work of God; for they have become trained in doing that which the Lord has never required them to do. They would better humble their own hearts before God, and keep their hands off the ark of God, lest the wrath of God shall break forth upon them; for if God has ever spoken by me, I testify that they have undertaken a work in criticizing and pronouncing unsound judgment which I know is not right. They are but finite men and, being befogged themselves, suppose that other men are in error.
Maranatha, p. 17
Humble Men Proclaim the MessageWe have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts. 2 Peter 1:19.
This message [Rev. 14:6, 7] is declared to be a part of "the everlasting gospel." The work of preaching the gospel has not been committed to angels, but has been entrusted to men. Holy angels have been employed in directing this work, they have in charge the great movements for the salvation of men; but the actual proclamation of the gospel is performed by the servants of Christ upon the earth.
Faithful men, who were obedient to the promptings of God's Spirit and the teachings of His word, were to proclaim this warning to the world. They were those who had taken heed to the "sure word of prophecy," the "light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise." 2 Peter 1:19. They had been seeking the knowledge of God more than all hid treasures, counting it "better than the merchandise of silver, and the gain thereof than fine gold." Proverbs 3:14. And the Lord revealed to them the great things of the kingdom. "The secret of the Lord is with them that fear him; and he will show them his covenant." Psalm 25:14.
It was not the scholarly theologians who had an understanding of this truth, and engaged in its proclamation. Had these been faithful watchmen, diligently and prayerfully searching the Scriptures, they would have known the time of night; the prophecies would have opened to them the events about to take place. But they did not occupy this position, and the message was given by humbler men. Said Jesus: "Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come upon you." John 12:35. Those who turn away from the light which God has given, or who neglect to seek it when it is within their reach, are left in darkness. But the Saviour declares: "He that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." John 8:12. Whoever is with singleness of purpose seeking to do God's will, earnestly heeding the light already given, will receive greater light; to that soul some star of heavenly radiance will be sent to guide him into all truth.
The Acts of the Apostles, p. 535
While exalting the "sure word of prophecy" as a safe guide in times of peril, the apostle solemnly warned the church against the torch of false prophecy, which would be uplifted by "false teachers," who would privily bring in "damnable heresies, even denying the Lord." These false teachers, arising in the church and accounted true by many of their brethren in the faith, the apostle compared to "wells without water, clouds that are carried with a tempest; to whom the mist of darkness is reserved forever." "The latter end is worse with them," he declared, "than the beginning. For it had been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than, after they have known it, to turn from the holy commandment delivered unto them."
Looking down through the ages to the close of time, Peter was inspired to outline conditions that would exist in the world just prior to the second coming of Christ. "There shall come in the last days scoffers," he wrote, "walking after their own lusts, and saying, Where is the promise of His coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation." But "when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them." 1 Thessalonians 5:3. Not all, however, would be ensnared by the enemy's devices. As the end of all things earthly should approach, there would be faithful ones able to discern the signs of the times. While a large number of professing believers would deny their faith by their works, there would be a remnant who would endure to the end.
